• Opt-In — By placing a mobile opt-in option on your website, or developing an SMS campaign, your customers can allow you to send them text alerts, SMS messages, and MMS notifications, giving you the opportunity to contact them 24/7.

• Announcements — Print ads no longer cut it. After all, why notify your customers only once a week, when you can send them the latest deals and offers right from launch? Announce new products, special discounts, and more, all through mobile.

• Optimize — Some elements of your website may not appear on mobile devices, and if they do, they may look garbled or confused. Mobile websites offer simple, easy-to-access support for your customers. Doing a mobile website right can make or break your business when it comes to marketing on-the-go.

This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to mobile marketing. Everything from mobile coupons to special event access can be optimized for mobile devices, and now more than ever local businesses must seize this opportunity. Create a mobile platform, and then get the word out — invite your customer to experience your business on their mobile device through website promotion, word-of-mouth, and through your online store. Make it easy for your customers to access your products and services, and they will keep coming back.

Push and Pull

Understanding the two types of mobile messaging campaigns is critical for success. Known as “push” and “pull,” these campaigns seek to extend opportunities to your customers. The push strategy aims to seek out customers by broadcasting your business and calling individuals to action. Whether through radio, television, or other ad campaigns, your business extends an opportunity to the customer. Maybe they have to like you on Facebook, or respond to a text; whatever the case, your business takes the initial step.

Pull marketing works in a similar way, but in this case it is the customer who must act. A simple message can go out to customers prompting them to respond. In doing so, they receive a special offer, discount, or other promotion. Using both of these systems can significantly enhance the reach of your local business.

Mobile marketing is instant marketing. It means having the ability to reach customers wherever they are at any time, day or night. The web is now at our fingertips, and having access to the sea of information means having the opportunity to explore businesses, make purchases, and seek information with minimal effort — and with minimal risk. Mobile marketing will only get bigger in the future, so local businesses should take action now to ensure a successful mobile platform.

If you need help integrating mobile marketing strategies into your business, TrueNorth3 Mobile is here to assist you. Contact us today!